Risk of Infection After Blood Draw: Should You Get Tested?
The blood draw resulted in a bruise at the puncture site? Hello doctor, during the blood draw, the nurse accidentally touched the puncture site with her index finger, and also touched it when removing the needle. She applied the cotton ball only after the needle was removed. Is t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Testing may not be necessary. 2. If you have any other questions, you can call 1922 for inquiries. by Dr. Liao[Read More] Risk of Infection After Blood Draw: Should You Get Tested?
Understanding Unexplained Fever: Next Steps for Diagnosis and Treatment
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) - please advise on the next steps for medical evaluation? Hello, Doctor. Last winter, I occasionally experienced low-grade fever, chills, and muscle aches in the evenings (after 10 PM, with an ear temperature of 37.4 to 38°C). I had these symptoms ab...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. The significance of a CRP level of 2.3: An elevated CRP may indicate infection (bacterial/viral/fungal) or inflammation; both conditions can potentially cause fever. The former requires antibiotic treatment for bacterial infections, while the latter can be impr...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Fever: Next Steps for Diagnosis and Treatment
Understanding Diabetes: Concerns and Management for Young Adults
Diabetes issues Hello, Doctor: Today I am going to the hospital to have my blood drawn, and they will test my hemoglobin A1c! I'm really afraid that the report will show elevated levels and that I might have diabetes. I am currently overweight, and my grandmother also has di...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, dear user: Please try not to worry until you receive your report. Moreover, early-stage diabetes can be improved with diet and exercise. Medical advancements are rapid, and managing diabetes is not difficult. You might be overthinking it. Wishing you good health. Thank you...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Concerns and Management for Young Adults
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
Inquiry about blood sugar issues? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. During my company's health check-up this year, the HR department informed me that fasting was not required. Therefore, I had breakfast on the day of the check-up and had my blood drawn about...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, if any of the following three criteria are met (at least twice), a diagnosis of diabetes can be made: a. Fasting plasma glucose level equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL. b. Presence of classic diabetes symptoms (such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased h...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Testing: Common Questions Answered
Please ask again about the timing for blood glucose testing and any other related questions? Hello, Dr. Hsiao! I have read your previous response regarding my question about blood sugar testing times and other related issues, but I still have some confusion. I would like to ask a...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: The diagnostic criteria for diabetes published by the American Diabetes Association in 2010 are as follows: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dl after at least 8 hours of fasting. b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dl during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. ...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Testing: Common Questions Answered
Understanding Fasting and Postprandial Blood Sugar Testing Guidelines
Questions related to blood glucose testing times and others? Hello Dr. Hsiao! I have a few questions I would like to ask... 1. For fasting blood glucose testing, is it necessary to fast for 8 hours? For example, if I am to test fasting blood glucose today, does that mean I must...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
In healthy individuals, approximately 5 to 15 minutes after eating, glucose absorbed through digestion stimulates the beta cells of the pancreas to release stored insulin granules directly into the bloodstream. Between 20 minutes and 2 hours after eating, insulin is subsequently ...[Read More] Understanding Fasting and Postprandial Blood Sugar Testing Guidelines
Understanding Hormone Testing and Health Insurance Coverage in Taiwan
Issues with Health Insurance Coverage for Testing This year, I will turn 20 years old, and my voice has not changed. I am unsure if this is due to a hormone deficiency, and I feel that I am not manly enough. Can I get a hormone test? Is it done through a blood draw? Will the cost...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, regarding your issue, I suggest you visit a major hospital for an examination, which can generally be covered by health insurance. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hormone Testing and Health Insurance Coverage in Taiwan
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
This morning, I went for a fasting blood draw, and after receiving the report, I found that my creatinine level is slightly elevated? Hello Doctor, I submitted a question on October 12 (you replied on October 14). This morning, I went to the lab on an empty stomach to have blood ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello: Creatinine: 1.24, GFR 81.64, which is not far from the normal value of 90. This could be due to fluctuations in test results or may indicate a mild issue. It is recommended to have regular blood tests for monitoring (every six months or annually). Additionally, regarding y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Blood test Hello, doctor. I recently had blood tests done on January 23 and January 26, with white blood cell counts of 6200 and 8800, respectively. My white blood cell count has typically been around 6000. Why is there such a significant difference in the results over just two t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, it is possible for the total white blood cell count to fluctuate within a few days. This is because some white blood cells adhere to the blood vessel walls, and when the body experiences stress, a mild cold, or pain, these adhered white blood cells can detach and return to...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
About diabetes? First of all, I would like to thank Dr. Lee for the previous response. I do have hyperlipidemia and hypertension, which I am currently managing with medication. My average blood pressure is (systolic) 110-120 and (diastolic) 65-75. In my last inquiry, my fasting b...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The blood glucose levels obtained from a standard blood draw are typically about 15% higher than those measured by a glucose meter, which may raise some questions for you. Since you are at high risk for diabetes, it is recommended that you continue to manage your diet and ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
Impact of Diet on Blood Test Results for Prediabetes
Prediabetes Hello Dr. Lee: Today, the hospital's blood test report shows fasting blood glucose: 117, glycated hemoglobin: 5.8, triglycerides: 193, cholesterol: normal, and uric acid: normal. I consumed a large amount of soda (5 bottles) and ate fried chicken nuggets (4 piece...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, I recommend that you pay attention to the following three points: 1. Correct your dietary habits. 2. You are at high risk for diabetes: as your glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is greater than 5.7; please note that glycated hemoglobin is not affecte...[Read More] Impact of Diet on Blood Test Results for Prediabetes
Understanding Acute Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Kidney problems Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been drinking a lot of water, but the amount I urinate is very little. I usually exercise a lot and sweat a lot, but lately, my sweat has had a very sour smell, somewhat like ammonia. Additionally, I have been experiencing a dull pa...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Regarding acute renal failure (acute renal failure, also known as acute kidney injury): It is essential to understand the functions of the kidneys in the body. The kidneys primarily eliminate toxins produced from protein metabolism (commonly referred to as uremia) and regulate...[Read More] Understanding Acute Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Concerns and Next Steps
SGOT: 22, SGPT: 43 On September 21, my health check report indicated that my GOT is 22 and GPT is 43. I do not have Hepatitis B or C. Although my levels are only slightly above the standard values by 3, I am still quite worried. Today, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doc...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
There are many reasons for elevated liver function tests, with common causes including viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and drug-induced hepatitis. Based on your levels, it does not appear to be viral hepatitis (acute hepatitis A or E can likely be ruled...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Concerns and Next Steps
Managing High Blood Sugar and Cholesterol: What You Need to Know
I'm sorry, but I need more context to provide a translation. Could you please provide additional information or content? I went to the hospital for an examination and found that I have high blood sugar and high total cholesterol levels. The 24-hour urine test results are unk...
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello; you have undergone examinations at the hospital and found that you have high blood sugar and elevated total cholesterol levels, which may indicate the possibility of diabetes and dyslipidemia. The rapid weight gain may be related to the psychiatric medications you are taki...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar and Cholesterol: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chills and Night Sweats: A Guide for Seniors
Chills and night sweats? Hello Doctor: I am 70 years old and have had no significant health issues in the past, nor have I taken any traditional or Western medications. Three weeks ago, I started experiencing chills and excessive sweating every day around 2 to 3 PM, lasting for a...
Dr. Guo Hanyue Reply:
Hello! Due to Dr. Kuo Han-Yue from our Infectious Disease Department providing support at Taitung Hospital, we recommend that if you are feeling unwell, please seek medical attention at the hospital as soon as possible. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Chills and Night Sweats: A Guide for Seniors
Understanding HIV Risks: What to Know After a Potential Exposure
I'm very scared. How long does it take to die from AIDS? Hello Dr. Lin, during a sexual encounter, the condom broke without my knowledge, and I continued for 3-4 minutes before realizing it. I am very scared... I would like to ask you a few questions, and I sincerely hope yo...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Question 1: Some laboratory reports use "non-reactive" to indicate negative results. So far, there is no evidence of HIV infection. Regarding your concerns: 1. Theoretically possible, but if the nurse follows standard procedures, she should not come into contact with yo...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: What to Know After a Potential Exposure
Understanding Urine Color Changes After Acute Hepatitis: Kidney Health Concerns
Liver disease, urine, kidney issues? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. A month ago, I was in the acute phase of hepatitis B, with liver enzymes exceeding 2000, but they have now approached normal levels, with values of 40 and 60. I am currently taking Betaloc. My daily routine is ...
Dr. Yang Weishun Reply:
Dear Mr. TT, Indeed, the color of urine is related to the amount of water you drink and your urine output. In cases of diabetes insipidus, the urine output is often greater than the amount of water consumed, with at least 3000 cc of urine produced in a day being a consideration ...[Read More] Understanding Urine Color Changes After Acute Hepatitis: Kidney Health Concerns
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Implications
Leukopenia Hello Doctor: I would like to ask a question regarding white blood cells. During a previous health check, it was found that my white blood cell count was around 3300. Since my student years, my white blood cell count has consistently been low (approximately 3200-3600) ...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
Yong-En: The white blood cell count is around 3300, which can be considered relatively low. It is essential to also consider the red blood cell and platelet counts, as well as the differential white blood cell count. Additionally, in clinical practice, it is important to assess w...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Implications
Understanding High ACTH Levels: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Elevated ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone My son has high ACTH levels, consistently between 400 and 500. He has undergone examinations at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, including an MRI, which came back normal. However, after taking medication for four months, his levels have not...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Addison's disease is a disorder of the adrenal glands that leads to adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal insufficiency causes an increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands. When adrenal func...[Read More] Understanding High ACTH Levels: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Your Concerns: HIV Symptoms and Misconceptions
I have been feeling very troubled? Hello, doctor. This has been a concern for me for 8 years: In fifth grade, I saw a campaign about HIV prevention and control. After some time, I got sick, and the doctor said it was a cold, but I was worried it might be symptoms of HIV infection...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello: The early symptoms of HIV are difficult to distinguish from other viral infections. It is recommended that you undergo anonymous testing after the window period to determine if you are infected. You can go to one of the ten designated hospitals that offer anonymous testing...[Read More] Understanding Your Concerns: HIV Symptoms and Misconceptions